1. Find businesses for sale
Source acquisition opportunities through brokers, online marketplaces, and direct approaches to owners
2. Conduct initial business research
Research the market, competitors, and target company using free resources including Companies House, market data, and customer validation
3. Conduct comprehensive due diligence
Complete financial, legal, and commercial due diligence to verify the seller's claims and identify hidden risks
Protect employees when a business transfers under TUPE
When a business changes hands or a service changes provider, TUPE moves the employees to the new employer on their existing terms, with continuous service kept.
5. Negotiate and structure the deal
From initial offer through exclusivity, Heads of Terms, and the legally binding Sale and Purchase Agreement
6. What happens on completion day
Timeline, checklist, and procedures for completion day including funds transfer, legal completion, and physical handover
7. Your first 90 days as owner
Strategic priorities for your first 90 days including building relationships, implementing quick wins, and avoiding common mistakes
Alternative: Start a new business instead
Compare buying vs starting to decide which is right for your situation
Financing your acquisition (opens in a new tab)
Explore funding options including bank loans, investor finance, and seller financing